Versailles Series Book 8: The Designer [COMPLETED]

PART II:CHAPTER 36

~ philip ~

"It's fine if you don't want her to meet me yet. I mean, we haven't even defined what this" her finger pointed at us "is. You know what I mean?"

I walked her back to her boutique after having a quick breakfast at my house. We stopped at the parking area and I stared at her. I can sense her disappointment with my reaction earlier. My grandfather used his tiring trip as an excuse to slip out of the awkward conversation I wasn't ready to delve into yet. I bit back the guilt I was feeling as I looked at Marceline.

"I'm sure Lola Lu expects me to introduce someone to her." I kept my voice light so she doesn't sense the tension boiling underneath.

"Have you ever introduced someone? Since Grazhiella died?"

I shook my head. I never had a date decent enough to introduce to Lola Lu. Those dates never got to a point where I had to share my life with Grazhiella. They were more focused on my life as a CEO and what my money could get them. They didn't care about my life or who I was beyond the family name.

"We can visit her when Lolo goes home in a few days."

I saw how her eyes lit up. There's excitement there. "I've never been to your province. I wish I had explored the Philippines more aside from the touristy places."

I held her hand and massaged it lightly. "You'll love it there. If I don't have to be in Manila or Baguio, I usually stay there. It brings me tranquillity. Keeps me calm and relaxed."

I bit my lip. "I hope she likes me, Philip."

"She is the most kindhearted person I've met. She will love you." I held her chin to release her lip from her teeth.

"I'm nervous."

I squeezed her shoulder. "Don't be, Marceline. She's a lovable grandmother. You'll know when you meet her." I pocketed my hands. "I'll send you the details."

"Will you drive going there?"

I nodded. "I usually drive myself."

"Thank you, Philip. I know how much this means to you."

I held the side of her face and tilted my face so I could kiss her properly. I felt her sigh against my lips and her body press unto mine. I reluctantly let her go as she went to her boutique. I missed her scent the moment I couldn't smell her anymore. By the time I went back home, my grandfather was waiting for me.

"I love you old man but did you do that?" My tone had an edge to it. We usually throw banters with each other but we know when to get serious.

"Better now than later. If you are so confident that Marceline and Grazhiella are two different people in your mind, this won't be as difficult as you're making it out to be. With the way you're acting now, seems like it's you who needs convincing. Not me. Not Lucilla."

I sat on the chair while holding my head. "I have to talk to Lola Lu."

"The resemblance is uncanny. It's like seeing Grazhiella again in the flesh." Naramdaman ko ang pagtapik nito sa balikat ko. "You're a great guy, Philip. But if you don't want that guilt eating you up, you better lay out all the cards to her. If Marceline knows everything, there will be no doubt in your mind and heart. And she won't second guess your feelings for her."

"Let me handle this, Lolo."

He nodded before going up. I texted Damon for us to have a kickboxing session today. I need to let off some steam.